Get a peek at spring peepers

With spring weather comes outdoor spring sounds. And one well-known sound in parts of the Poconos is the song of the spring peeper frog, also known as pseudacris crucifer.

MELANIE VANDERVEER

With spring weather comes outdoor spring sounds. And one well-known sound in parts of the Poconos is the song of the spring peeper frog, also known as pseudacris crucifer.

Pocono Environmental Education Center wants to help you identify the spring peeper with its annual program, Spring Peeper Search.

"We've done this for many years, and it's very popular," said Molly Check, public programs manager and naturalist. "The program will start indoors with an introduction segment about the spring peeper, what they can expect to find and the history."

After learning a little about the small frogs, participants will get flashlights and nets and head over to the swamp on the property.

"We go to a small area where they are really active," Check said. "They blend in very well with the surrounding area, but they have a distinct sound. It's very loud, and their peeps can travel half a mile."

Spring peeper seekers will have to stay still and bring along some patience, but finding them isn't going to be too hard.

"We always catch several to look at up close," Check said. "Everyone gets their own opportunity to gently catch and release them. Everybody is encouraged to catch one in their hands or net. Everyone usually ends up pretty successful."

Spring peepers may be small — only about three-quarters of an inch to an inch long — but have distinct colors. They are your typical frog shape and have special markings on their backs.

"Their color varies depending on nearby vegetation," Check said. "Regardless of their color, they all have a big 'X' mark on their back. That's their main identifier."

An interesting fact about this particular frog: They freeze solid during winter and hibernate under leaves and rocks.

"When we get warmer temperatures, and especially rain, they are thawing out," she said. "When they thaw, they head towards the water and start breeding. Breeding continues throughout spring."

The program is for all ages, and reservations are requested. PEEC will supply nets and flashlights, but appreciate if people bring their own flashlights, as well.